BREAKING: Steffi Graf Donates Entire $18.9 Million Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter In Mannheim, Germany to Help Fund 150 Units Housing with 300 Shelter Beds… “I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way,” She Said in a press conference. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk…

Funds Will Help Build 150 Housing Units and 300 Emergency Shelter Beds in Her Hometown

In a powerful and heartfelt act of generosity, tennis legend Steffi Graf has donated her entire $18.9 million in recent bonus and sponsorship earnings to support a large-scale homeless housing initiative in Mannheim, Germany—her hometown.

The donation will fund the construction of 150 permanent housing units and 300 shelter beds, aimed at addressing the growing homelessness crisis in the region and offering long-term, life-changing support to hundreds of individuals and families.

At a press conference held at Mannheim City Hall, Graf, often known for her quiet humility off the court, stepped into the spotlight to speak on an issue that has long affected her.

“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up,” she said. “And I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way. No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk.”

More Than a Donation—A Personal Mission

Graf, widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes in tennis history, has long been involved in humanitarian work, especially through her Children for Tomorrow Foundation, which supports children suffering from the effects of war and trauma. However, this donation marks her most significant public philanthropic gesture to date—and one that hits close to home.

The initiative will focus on building:

• 150 long-term housing units in and around Mannheim, designed with access to on-site social services including counseling, employment support, and healthcare.

• 300 shelter beds to address immediate needs during the harsh winter months and peak housing insecurity periods.

• A community center and support hub, offering legal aid, trauma recovery, addiction treatment, and family reunification programs.

Construction is scheduled to begin in late 2025, with partnerships between Graf’s team, local charities, and Mannheim’s city government already underway.

Local Leaders Praise Graf’s Vision

Mannheim Mayor Dr. Peter Kurz expressed immense gratitude for Graf’s contribution.

“Steffi Graf has always made Mannheim proud. Today, she has given back in a way that will echo through generations. Her generosity goes beyond money—it’s a message of hope and unity.”

Social service organizations in the region echoed the sentiment. Sabine Keller, director of a local shelter nonprofit, called the gift “unprecedented,” adding:

“This funding fills gaps we’ve struggled with for years. More importantly, it sends a clear message that everyone deserves dignity and safety.”

A Quiet Champion With a Loud Impact

Though Graf retired from tennis in 1999, her legacy has never faded. Known for her discipline, humility, and relentless focus, she won 22 Grand Slam titles and held the world No. 1 ranking for a record 377 weeks. Off the court, she has continued to lead by example, often away from the media spotlight.

This time, however, her choice to make the donation public was intentional.

“I want others who have the means to step up,” she said. “This isn’t just about Mannheim. Homelessness is a human crisis that we can all help solve.”

Public and Global Reaction

News of Graf’s donation quickly spread across social media, with praise pouring in from across Germany and the international tennis community.

Billie Jean King tweeted:

“What an incredible gesture by Steffi Graf—true class on and off the court.”

Fans and supporters shared personal stories and called the move “inspirational,” with many calling for increased attention to homelessness in both urban and rural Germany.

Looking Ahead

In addition to the housing project, Graf hinted at expanding her philanthropic work into broader anti-poverty efforts across Europe. She plans to personally visit shelter sites during construction and stay involved in long-term planning.

“This is just the beginning,” she said. “Housing is a human right. And I’ll keep using my voice and resources to make sure more people have it.”

With this remarkable act, Steffi Graf once again proves that greatness is not only measured by titles and trophies—but by the lives we lift along the way.